Composite vs Timber Decking | What’s Best for You?

Composite vs Timber

When choosing the perfect decking material for your outdoor space, the decision often comes down to timber or composite decking. While both have their advantages, it’s essential to consider factors like maintenance, durability, appearance, and long-term costs before making a choice. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.

Maintenance

Timber needs regular oiling and sealing; composite requires minimal upkeep.

Durability

Timber is prone to rot and splinters; composite resists moisture, rot, and warping.

Colour & Fading

Timber fades and needs staining; composite is UV-stabilized for long-term colour retention.

Comfort & Safety

Timber can splinter and warp; composite stays smooth and stable.

Environmental Impact

Timber requires tree harvesting; My Deck’s composite is made from recycled materials.

Cost & Longevity

Timber has a lower upfront cost but high maintenance expenses; composite costs more initially but lasts longer with minimal upkeep.

For a hassle-free, eco-friendly, and long-lasting decking solution, My Deck’s composite is the smart choice. Contact us today to explore your options!

Maintenance

Timber decks require regular oiling, painting, or sealing to maintain their appearance and protect them from Australia’s harsh weather conditions. Without proper upkeep, timber can deteriorate quickly.

In contrast, My Deck’s composite decking comes pre-finished, eliminating the need for oiling, painting, or sealing. A simple clean with soap and water is all it takes to keep it looking fresh year-round.

Durability & Rot Resistance

Timber’s porous nature means it absorbs moisture, which can lead to rot and decay if not regularly maintained, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

My Deck’s composite decking, however, has a low water absorption rate, making it highly resistant to moisture, rot, and decay—ensuring a longer-lasting deck with minimal effort.

Movement & Stability

Timber decking expands and contracts with changes in moisture levels. It can shrink, swell, and even splinter over time.

Composite decking behaves differently—it expands lengthwise with heat but doesn’t crack, or splinter like timber. Proper installation accounts for thermal expansion, ensuring a stable and safe deck for years to come.

Colour & Fading

Timber naturally fades to a silvery-grey tone if left untreated, requiring regular sealing or staining to maintain its colour.

My Deck’s composite decking is UV-stabilized, meaning it retains its colour for the lifetime of the deck. While there may be a slight initial sheen loss, it won’t fade significantly like timber.

Splintering & Comfort

Timber can splinter as it dries, particularly if pressure washed or neglected.

Composite decking is designed to be splinter-free, making it a safer and more comfortable option for families, pets, and barefoot living.

Cleaning & Staining

Both timber and composite decks need occasional cleaning. However, timber can stain from spills, dirt, and weather exposure, requiring frequent resealing to prevent permanent marks.

My Deck’s composite boards often feature a protective polymer wrap, offering superior stain resistance and easy cleaning with just water and mild detergent.

Warping & Cupping

Timber is prone to warping and cupping over time due to its natural grain structure and exposure to different environmental conditions.

Composite decking from My Deck is designed to resist warping and cupping. Unlike some hollow-core composites, our solid-core boards are certified for a standard 450mm joist span, ensuring structural integrity and durability.

Appearance & Consistency

Timber’s natural variations make each deck unique, but inconsistent sizing, knots, and bowing can make installation challenging.

Composite decking offers uniformity in colour, size, and finish. With various styles and textures available, you can achieve a premium timber look without the inconsistencies.

Environmental Impact

Timber decking requires harvesting trees, and while sustainable options exist, the long-term impact can be significant.

My Deck’s composite boards are made from 90% recycled material and 10% new UV stabilised plastic, making them an eco-friendly choice for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cost & Longevity

Timber decking generally has a lower upfront cost, but the ongoing expenses of maintenance, staining, and repairs add up over time.

Composite decking has a higher initial investment but pays for itself with minimal upkeep and a longer lifespan. With no need for ongoing treatments, you can enjoy your deck without the hassle and extra costs.

Final Verdict

If you love the natural charm of timber and don’t mind the maintenance, it can be a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting, and eco-friendly alternative, My Deck’s composite decking is the smart investment.

Still unsure? Contact My Deck today to explore our range and find the perfect decking solution for your outdoor space!

	My Deck Composite	Timber
Requires no oiling/sealing maintenance
Naturally resistant to rot, decay and termites
Concealed fixings		Limited options
Anti-slip rated
UV Stabilised
Will not fade to grey
Will not splinter, cup, twist or warp
Straight and consistent lengths
Up to 25-year warranty